Caring for Your Chihuahua

Chihuahuas are highly intelligent, spirited little dogs who should never be underestimated for their size. While they are generally healthy, their tiny and fragile frames require special care and attention. Chihuahuas should always be kept indoors as they cannot tolerate cold weather.

The “Teacup” Myth

There is no such thing as a “teacup,” “micro,” “miniature,” or “toy” Chihuahua. The AKC recognizes only two coat varieties: long coat and smooth coat.

• Breed standard: six pounds or under to be shown.

• A lot of Chihuahuas can be over 6 pounds though and they are still purebred Chihuahuas! 

• Occasionally, a puppy may be unusually small — this is simply a small Chihuahua, not a separate variety.

Do not be misled by breeders using these misleading terms.

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Children & Large Dogs

Even though some Chihuahuas grow slightly larger than six pounds, this does not mean they are unhealthy or poorly bred.

Because of their delicate size, they are defenseless against rough handling from young children and against larger dogs.

• Always supervise interactions.

• When unsupervised, keep your Chihuahua separated for safety.

• Use a leash in public to prevent injury and keep them safe if startled.

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Feeding & Nutrition

Chihuahuas have a high metabolism and require premium-quality dog food.

• Puppies should have dry food available at all times to prevent hypoglycemia.

• Fresh water should always be available.

• Supplements are not necessary with a balanced, high-quality food.

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Health Topics in Chihuahuas

Molera (Soft Spot)

• Many Chihuahua puppies are born with a molera (similar to the fontanel in babies).

• It is normal and not harmful.

• It does not cause or predispose them to hydrocephalus.

• Both with and without a molera are normal for the breed.

➡️ [Read the Chihuahua Club of America’s statement on molera here.]

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Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar)

Chihuahuas — especially puppies and very tiny individuals — are prone to hypoglycemia.

Symptoms may include:

• Staggering, falling, or acting “drunk.”

• Lying on their side and paddling.

• Weakness, seizures, or collapse.

What to do:

• Rub Nutrical, honey, Karo syrup, or sugar water on the gums.

• Use an eye dropper or spoon if the puppy won’t lick it on their own.

• Seek immediate veterinary care, as repeated episodes may signal an underlying issue.

 

Reverse Sneezing

• A common, harmless trait in toy breeds.

• Sounds like honking, snorting, or wheezing.

• Often triggered by excitement, drinking too quickly, or pulling on the leash.

• Ends quickly and can be helped by gently massaging the throat, distracting the dog, or briefly covering the nostrils to encourage swallowing.

 

Coat Thinning in Puppies

• Between 8–12 weeks, puppies may experience temporary hair thinning (“hen-pecked look”). This is especially common in long coat Chihuahuas! 

• Normal and caused by a coat change, not mange.

• Coat will grow back within weeks; may occur again around 1 year old or after females cycle/nurse.

 

Teething

• Baby teeth come in by 6 weeks, permanent teeth around 12 weeks.

• Teething can cause temporary floppy ears or odd ear positions.

• This is normal and usually resolves naturally.

• It is not uncommon for small breed dogs, like Chihuahuas to have a lot of retained puppy teeth! 

 

Nail Care

Indoor Chihuahuas often need regular nail trimming since they don’t wear them down naturally. Long nails can cause discomfort, splayed toes, and damage to flooring.

 

Anal Glands (Scooting)

• Chihuahuas may need their anal sacs expressed if they cannot empty them naturally.

• Signs: scooting, licking the area, tail-chasing.

• A vet or groomer can empty them externally or internally.

• Chronic issues may require diet changes or (in rare cases) surgery.

 

Hydrocephalus

• Hydrocephalus is a serious and abnormal condition caused by fluid buildup in the brain.

• Moleras do not cause hydrocephalus.

• Signs include: wide-set/protruding eyes, abnormal behavior, seizures, slow growth, or lack of coordination.

• Severe cases are often fatal in puppies; mild cases may be managed by a vet.